TOWN OF GRANBY
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
MINUTES
MAY 27, 2008
Present: Margaret Chapple, Linda Spevacek, Daniel P. Brown, Charles Kraiza, James Sansone, Paul Lambert.
Note that Margret Chapple served as Commission Chairman.
The meeting opened at 7:03 p.m.
Public Session: There was no public comment
ON A MOTION by Daniel Brown, seconded by Charles Kraiza, the Commission voted to approve the minutes of May 13, 2008. All approved.
Linda Spevacek read the Public Hearing Notice on an application to amend the Granby Plan of Conservation and Development by adding a portion of the Farmington Valley Biodiversity Project. Fran noted that this proposed amendment is a supplement to the existing plan. The supplement contains a portion of the Farmington Valley Biodiversity Project and recommends that any review of future land use applications be undertaken with an understanding and appreciation of the thoughts, concerns and recommendations of the Farmington Valley Biodiversity Project and with consideration of the Granby Biodiversity map. Fran noted that this amendment highlights the unique ecological areas of the town and recognizes the importance of maintaining biodiversity. Fran addressed the notification process that was followed
for the proposed amendment. He sent a copy of the proposed amendment to the Capital Region Council of Governments. He posted copies of the proposed amendment on the Granby web site and the Town Clerk’s office. He advertised the public hearing in the Hartford Courant and sent notifications to the Town’s extensive e-mail list and notified the Registry. James Sansone asked if other towns have adopted similar amendments based on the Biodiversity Report. Fran stated that other Towns, including Avon and Farmington have. Margaret Chapple asked Fran if this amendment would require changes to our Subdivision or Zoning Regulations and Fran replied no, but in making future decisions on Zoning or Subdivision applications the Commission could reference the amendment. He noted that the Conservation Commission is working on a Trapp Rock Ridge regulation and these ridges are specifically referenced within the proposed amendment. The
public was invited to comment and Carolyn Flint, a member of the Conservation Commission spoke in support. She commented on the ecological well being and how by adopting this amendment we can help maintain it. Commission members further discussed the proposed amendment, voicing various thoughts on the preservation of specific areas when an application is being reviewed and on how the proposed amendment might aid the process. Margret Chapple closed the Public hearing and noted the Commission has 65 days to decide on adopting the amendment.
The Commission considered a referral from the Board of Selectman regarding the discontinuance of Weed Hill Road and a portion of Broad Hill Road. A map was presented, which identified the location of Weed Hill Road and the portion of Broad Hill Road that is being considered. Discontinuance means that the Town will no longer have the responsibility for maintaining the road, nor the liability. Put Brown stated that he would not be voting on this matter as he lives on a portion of Broad Hill Road and owns property in the area that is proposed for discontinuance. He outlined various concerns of vandals and partiers using the roads and of random garbage being discarded. He voiced his belief that hikers should continue to have access to the area, commented on parking; explained the rights of the
Carpenter family who have lifetime use of a cabin that is located on Broad Hill Road and mentioned concerns for the bridge on Weed Hill Road. He discussed the probable need for maintenance if the road was to remain passable, noting falling trees and storm water washouts. He stressed that he is neither opposing nor supporting the discontinuance. He wants all the issues to be understood and desires that the Commission members understand that any recommendation that they make should be planning based. Fran referenced a map that identified the location of the roadways. The map showed that where the road is proposed to be discontinued it is engulfed by preserved open space. He briefly discussed maintenance and liability. He stated that the Commission reviews this matter as planners and should consider if the road is needed to enhance the Town’s transportation network. He felt that issues such as dumping, future access, hiking, biking
and partying were best addressed by the Board of Selectmen. The BOS will need to hold a public hearing on the matter and through that process they will no doubt need to consider a wide range of issues. Commission members asked various questions and expressed thoughts and concerns. Fran suggested that the Commission contact Jamie Klaise, DPW superintendent for further information on the road. They may also wish to contact David Watkins, Granby Police Chief. The Commission members decided to drive the area before making any decision on the matter.
ON A MOTION by James Sansone seconded by Charlie Kraiza the Commission voted to table the matter. All approved.
Fran commented that the application for a modification of the site plan for property located at 20 Hartford Avenue, Beman’s Hardware would be withdrawn.
Staff Reports and Correspondence
Fran commented on a nice article that appeared in the Drummer regarding the zoning changes that are being contemplated for the center area. He noted that the article erroneously stated that East Street would be the northerly boundary of a center zone when actually the northerly boundary that is under consideration is the Salmon Brook, located on Salmon Brook Street just north of the High School.
Fran reported that the Conservation Committee is considering Ridgeline Zoning for the Trapp Rock ridge areas.
There will be public workshops on these issues and they will be reporting to the Commission in the future.
James Sansone asked about a possible application or a Walgreens store. Fran commented that he hasn’t heard anything lately. Jim also asked about the recently approved office building for 37 Hartford Avenue and Fran said they are looking for tenants, nationally and internationally.
Fran commented on a CRCOG grant that would aid the Town’s GIS capabilities, mentioned recent rumors, and discussed Cider Mill Heights 3 and additional funds that were received for the completion of the road. The Commission briefly discussed the ability to mandate a diversity of businesses, relative to the contemplated center zoning. Fran agreed to forward an e-mail on this matter to the members.
Fran reported that trees have been planted on the Janeski property and reported that the sound barrier fence has been constructed on behind Geisslers. He further commented that he received a complaint that the noise is still unacceptable and that Bill Volovski will be going out there to review the situation.
The meeting adjourned at 8:02 p.m.
Respectfully submitted
Anne S. Winsor
Recording Secretary
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